you know, they had great words of praise for connecticut state troopers. every family has been assigned a trooper, every family's been assigned a trooper that sort of gets them through. they said it makes them feel protected and loved. that's a very good thing. >> very good thing. >>> a team of golden retrievers from chicago made a trip to newtown to comfort those affected by the school massacre. their first stop was a church where funerals will be held this week for some of the victims. residents can pet the dogs while they talk or they pray. their handlers say the dogs have a very calming influence. each dog carries a business card with its name, a facebook page, and an e-mail so people can stay in touch. >> that's very nice. >> yes. >>> president obama and house speaker john boehner are still in touch about the fiscal cliff. and there's new progress to report this morning from those negotiations. boehner is discussing the latest white house proposal with fellow republicans today. major garrett is at the white house. major, are we finally close to a deal